During World War II, both Germany and the U.S. began research on airplanes that could take off and land vertically, which would eliminate the need for huge runways. The basic idea was to have the plane sit on its tail, and also land on its tail! There were many designs and prototypes of "tailsitters," but the idea fell by the wayside as helicopters took over that job. Aerospace engineers are still working on vertical takeoff and landing, but not by sitting on the craft's tail. Read about these experimental craft and see more pictures at Dark Roasted Blend. Link